Peter Alexander, the owner of the venue, has lodged a new licensing plan to allow opening until 4am for the sale of alcohol and playing of recorded music.

The plans also state live music under the new licence could go on until 3am each night. The venue would close its doors at 4.30am.

Licensing sergeant Tony Bushell, on behalf of Preston Police, has objected to the new licensing plan from Blitz.

He states: “It is the view of the Constabulary that the dispersal of up to 400 intoxicated patrons in the early hours of the morning in a relatively isolated location on the edge of the city centre would lead to an increase in violent crime and anti-social behaviour.”

He goes on to say he has “serious concerns that granting this application will undermine the licensing objectives.”